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Alpha Elite #0.5
SEAL
Navy SEAL.
Team Leader.
Warrior.
Men are born. Warriors are made. Honor is earned.
I was sixteen years old when I first heard those words from my best friend's father. The Vice Admiral took me in, taught me about integrity, and gave me what I'd never had—a family.
But it wasn't just my best friend and his father who changed my life.
The emerald-eyed blonde with an innocent smile stopped me dead in my tracks. Wanting to be a man worthy of her, I enlisted and became a SEAL. Except not even the Trident I'd earned changed the fact that she was the Vice Admiral's daughter and my best friend's much younger sister. She was strictly off-limits.
Then tragedy struck, and I found myself in the one position I never should've let happen—with my arms around her. Now I had one objective.
Code name: Alpha.
Mission: Retreat.
SEAL is a prequel to ALPHA, the first standalone book in the exciting Alpha Elite Series by USA Today Bestselling author, Sybil Bartel. Come meet Adam "Alpha" Trefor and the dominant, alpha Navy SEALs he serves with!
Team Leader.
Warrior.
Men are born. Warriors are made. Honor is earned.
I was sixteen years old when I first heard those words from my best friend's father. The Vice Admiral took me in, taught me about integrity, and gave me what I'd never had—a family.
But it wasn't just my best friend and his father who changed my life.
The emerald-eyed blonde with an innocent smile stopped me dead in my tracks. Wanting to be a man worthy of her, I enlisted and became a SEAL. Except not even the Trident I'd earned changed the fact that she was the Vice Admiral's daughter and my best friend's much younger sister. She was strictly off-limits.
Then tragedy struck, and I found myself in the one position I never should've let happen—with my arms around her. Now I had one objective.
Code name: Alpha.
Mission: Retreat.
SEAL is a prequel to ALPHA, the first standalone book in the exciting Alpha Elite Series by USA Today Bestselling author, Sybil Bartel. Come meet Adam "Alpha" Trefor and the dominant, alpha Navy SEALs he serves with!
56 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 15, 2021
About the author
Sybil Bartel
52 books1,256 followersSybil Bartel is a USA Today Bestselling author of unapologetic Alpha heroes. Whether you're reading her dominant Alpha Elite mercenaries, her protective Alpha Bodyguards, or her page-turning romantic suspense, all of her heroes are sexy-as-sin and unwaveringly Alpha!
Sybil lives in South Florida, and she is forever Oliver's mom.
Sybil lives in South Florida, and she is forever Oliver's mom.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews
April 17, 2024
Short story lead into the series that I have not read. It was ok. Age difference longing for sister of friend ends on a cliffhanger. Reading through books I own and this was one of them.
May 26, 2021
This was a great start to this series! I'm definitely invested in Adam and his story now. I liked that he wasn't super rough and "dominant". I've been having a hard time connecting to the past few books this author has released because a lot of her heroes have been "alpha" jack*sses. I have to be in a certain headspace to enjoy those types of books, so they haven't been for me as of late. I hope this series proves to be awesome though!
May 22, 2021
Well this definitely gets you intrigued about Adam and Emmy's book. I definitely recommend reading this book before you read book one, Alpha. It's a great look into the beginning of Adam's obsession with Emmy.
October 25, 2021
4.5 Can't Wait To See What Happens Next Stars.
Well , this book certainly got my attention. A prequel to Alpha , this is Alpha (Adam) and Emmy's story. If you love the big brother's best friend , age gap trope , especially with a military (Navy Seal) twist , then I highly recommend this book.
Adam has been with the Nilsen family since he was 16. He had a terrible home life and ended up spending more and more time with Billy Nilsen , his best friend , and Billy's dad - Vice Admiral Nilsen -and the young Emmy who was only 5 when they first met. Emmy has adored Adam all her life and when she is seventeen he starts to see her for the beautiful woman she is becoming but he is 28 so she is completely off limits to him.
Tragedy strikes more than once and ultimately Emmy and Adam go their separate ways. This ends on a major cliffhanger but I am going straight on to read Alpha. I need to know what happens next. This is really promising start to the series.
SEAL is a short read at 56 pages on my Kindle and was free to buy at time of reading / reviewing.
HEA? No -Major cliffhanger
Cheating? No. Adam is 28 and Emmy is 17 so they are not in a physical relationship. The book opens with Adam having had a one night stand. Absolutely no emotional attachment between him and ONS.
Well , this book certainly got my attention. A prequel to Alpha , this is Alpha (Adam) and Emmy's story. If you love the big brother's best friend , age gap trope , especially with a military (Navy Seal) twist , then I highly recommend this book.
Adam has been with the Nilsen family since he was 16. He had a terrible home life and ended up spending more and more time with Billy Nilsen , his best friend , and Billy's dad - Vice Admiral Nilsen -and the young Emmy who was only 5 when they first met. Emmy has adored Adam all her life and when she is seventeen he starts to see her for the beautiful woman she is becoming but he is 28 so she is completely off limits to him.
Tragedy strikes more than once and ultimately Emmy and Adam go their separate ways. This ends on a major cliffhanger but I am going straight on to read Alpha. I need to know what happens next. This is really promising start to the series.
SEAL is a short read at 56 pages on my Kindle and was free to buy at time of reading / reviewing.
HEA? No -Major cliffhanger
Cheating? No. Adam is 28 and Emmy is 17 so they are not in a physical relationship. The book opens with Adam having had a one night stand. Absolutely no emotional attachment between him and ONS.
June 1, 2021
Great prequel to Alpha. I enjoyed the back story.
March 18, 2022
Seal by Sybil Bartel was such a tease for what's to come up in the next book! I can't wait to read about Adam and all the other guys!
Want to Read
December 20, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon & on Apple iBooks today (5/21/2021)!🎁
December 7, 2022
Not sure how I feel about this one, guys. Loss of a parent, brother/sister feelings where the pair wish they weren't siblings. It's good writing, but alternated between povs with each chapter and it ended on a cliffhanger so it can open up with the first book. Pretty sure I can guess where it goes after guy promises girl he'll come back from being a SEAL. I think I'll give this a 2.5 stars rounded up to 3 ⭐.
May 19, 2021
Free on all platforms
This is such a tease for what’s to come up in the next book. And I’m here for all of brother’s best friend romance.
This is such a tease for what’s to come up in the next book. And I’m here for all of brother’s best friend romance.
May 28, 2024
Sounded promising until I realized the 10+ age gap and he was lusting over his best friend's 17 year old sister, whom he grew up with.
If I'd just skipped this prequel and read their novel starting years later, the H probably wouldn't have given me the icks.
If I'd just skipped this prequel and read their novel starting years later, the H probably wouldn't have given me the icks.
May 9, 2022
Short Age-gap Romance
Very short but enjoyable story about Adam, a SEAL, who is in love with his best friend's sister, 11 years his junior. I'm assuming it's part of a series since there is an unresolved ending.
Very short but enjoyable story about Adam, a SEAL, who is in love with his best friend's sister, 11 years his junior. I'm assuming it's part of a series since there is an unresolved ending.
August 11, 2025
Sometimes I’m not a fan of reading short stories because I feel like they always have a cliffhanger and sometimes they don’t even have a sequel. I guess now I’ll have to invest in reading the series. Hopefully they pick up where they left off.
June 4, 2021
❤️❤️❤️❤️
Great lead in to a series , it encouraged me to buy the next book Alpha, and consequently im now hooked, I'm good with that.
Great lead in to a series , it encouraged me to buy the next book Alpha, and consequently im now hooked, I'm good with that.
November 18, 2021
Seal
I loved that Emma knew enough to reach out to her brother and Alpha in her time of need. I just wish they could’ve stayed with her longer but had to deploy
I loved that Emma knew enough to reach out to her brother and Alpha in her time of need. I just wish they could’ve stayed with her longer but had to deploy
July 3, 2023
Pulls you in pretty quickly but the ending… sucks when you don’t have the next book waiting to go
November 19, 2023
Um what an 80 page whirlwind lol it was a nice little prequel to Alpha.
Want to Read
August 31, 2025Purchased in epub format from Barnes and Noble for my Nook.
Did Not Finish
March 22, 2026I’m all for an age gap romance, but not an FMC who is 17. Let’s stop romanticizing grooming and the sexualization of children.
April 13, 2022
Quick and easy read
Quick read, the storyline has promise and characters and relationships have alot of potential, however will need to keep reading the series to see that grow.
Quick read, the storyline has promise and characters and relationships have alot of potential, however will need to keep reading the series to see that grow.
March 23, 2023
In my opinion it is too short, but I’m always going to say that about a book that gets my attention, is well written, and makes me want more. 10/10 I would recommend.
Read
September 25, 2021DNF
Just realized after going in that this book is just a prequel to the last one I read in this series and since I didn’t really liked that one, I’m going to set this one aside for now.
Also, what’s the deal with prequels coming out after? I’ve already found out how everything works out. Why would I want to read about him having sex with other women after I’ve just read about them finally getting their happily ever after? No thank you.
Just realized after going in that this book is just a prequel to the last one I read in this series and since I didn’t really liked that one, I’m going to set this one aside for now.
Also, what’s the deal with prequels coming out after? I’ve already found out how everything works out. Why would I want to read about him having sex with other women after I’ve just read about them finally getting their happily ever after? No thank you.
April 14, 2022
Great intro to the Alpha Elite series. Meet Adam, Billy, Zane and Maila or Alpha, Bravo, Zulu and Emmy respectively. SEAL brothers by bond and the teenage girl who is the sister of Bravo. I am looking forward to reading each characters story after this short prequel.
August 2, 2024
My Rating: ★★★★☆
Sybil Bartel's "Seal" delivers a potent mix of action and emotion, crafting a story that's both intense and heartfelt. Inspired by his best friend's father, a Vice Admiral, the protagonist enlists in the Navy SEALs, driven by a desire to be worthy of the Vice Admiral's daughter, who captivates him from their first encounter.
The protagonist’s journey begins with the Vice Admiral’s mentorship, teaching him about honor and integrity. His transformation into a Navy SEAL is fueled by his ambition to prove himself, not just as a warrior, but as a man deserving of the emerald-eyed blonde who has stolen his heart. The dynamic between them is both complex and compelling, as she remains off-limits due to her familial ties and his sense of duty.
Their relationship is the novella's highlight. The chemistry between them is immediate and intense, with the protagonist’s protective nature complementing her innocent allure. As their connection deepens, tragedy strikes, propelling them into a situation where their feelings and loyalties are tested. The ending leaves readers on a major cliffhanger, adding suspense and anticipation for what comes next.
Bartel’s writing style is engaging and vivid, drawing readers into the high-stakes world of Navy SEALs. The story balances romance and action, with well-timed pacing that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. The emotional depth of the protagonist’s journey and his relationship with the Vice Admiral’s daughter adds richness to the narrative.
"Seal" is more than just a military romance; it’s a story of honor, transformation, and forbidden love. Bartel handles these themes with skill, making the novella both thrilling and emotionally satisfying.
In conclusion, "Seal" is a captivating novella that blends action, romance, and emotional growth. Sybil Bartel has crafted a compelling story that sets the stage for the Alpha Elite Series. If you're seeking a quick, intense read with depth and heart, this book is a must-read.
Sybil Bartel's "Seal" delivers a potent mix of action and emotion, crafting a story that's both intense and heartfelt. Inspired by his best friend's father, a Vice Admiral, the protagonist enlists in the Navy SEALs, driven by a desire to be worthy of the Vice Admiral's daughter, who captivates him from their first encounter.
The protagonist’s journey begins with the Vice Admiral’s mentorship, teaching him about honor and integrity. His transformation into a Navy SEAL is fueled by his ambition to prove himself, not just as a warrior, but as a man deserving of the emerald-eyed blonde who has stolen his heart. The dynamic between them is both complex and compelling, as she remains off-limits due to her familial ties and his sense of duty.
Their relationship is the novella's highlight. The chemistry between them is immediate and intense, with the protagonist’s protective nature complementing her innocent allure. As their connection deepens, tragedy strikes, propelling them into a situation where their feelings and loyalties are tested. The ending leaves readers on a major cliffhanger, adding suspense and anticipation for what comes next.
Bartel’s writing style is engaging and vivid, drawing readers into the high-stakes world of Navy SEALs. The story balances romance and action, with well-timed pacing that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. The emotional depth of the protagonist’s journey and his relationship with the Vice Admiral’s daughter adds richness to the narrative.
"Seal" is more than just a military romance; it’s a story of honor, transformation, and forbidden love. Bartel handles these themes with skill, making the novella both thrilling and emotionally satisfying.
In conclusion, "Seal" is a captivating novella that blends action, romance, and emotional growth. Sybil Bartel has crafted a compelling story that sets the stage for the Alpha Elite Series. If you're seeking a quick, intense read with depth and heart, this book is a must-read.
November 30, 2023
sub par
Meh. Not great, the author uses the F word far too often not just in dialogue but in narration. I understand the term “cuss like a sailor” exists for a reason, but this is a book and it makes it pretty clear the authors vocabulary was lacking.
Also the author felt the need to mention five hundred times that they are navy seals, as if the reader wouldn’t remember from the first time it was told to us. The book isn’t that long and there are virtually no other details. Between that and the fact that they speak as if they’re on the battlefield, even when they’re not (which is obnoxious), it is impossible to forget that these guys are navy seals.
In addition, this is not a romance. If it were, the age gap wouldn’t be an issue. All this book is, is a whole lot of f-words, and a 28 year old Navy Seal…don’t forget he’s a Seal, pining over his best friends seventeen year old sister literally the day her dad dies.
It’s not good enough to make the age gap acceptable, he just comes across as creepy and pathetic.
ALL of that being said, there is still potential. Were they less robotic, were the f word not inserted every other word, and were there more details to do with nothing other than his attraction to her, this story could be a 3 or 4 star book.
It just feels empty, like the author wrote it in an afternoon, did a quick self edit, and slapped it upon kindle that same night. It’s superficial. Glad it was free otherwise I’d be wanting my money back.
Meh. Not great, the author uses the F word far too often not just in dialogue but in narration. I understand the term “cuss like a sailor” exists for a reason, but this is a book and it makes it pretty clear the authors vocabulary was lacking.
Also the author felt the need to mention five hundred times that they are navy seals, as if the reader wouldn’t remember from the first time it was told to us. The book isn’t that long and there are virtually no other details. Between that and the fact that they speak as if they’re on the battlefield, even when they’re not (which is obnoxious), it is impossible to forget that these guys are navy seals.
In addition, this is not a romance. If it were, the age gap wouldn’t be an issue. All this book is, is a whole lot of f-words, and a 28 year old Navy Seal…don’t forget he’s a Seal, pining over his best friends seventeen year old sister literally the day her dad dies.
It’s not good enough to make the age gap acceptable, he just comes across as creepy and pathetic.
ALL of that being said, there is still potential. Were they less robotic, were the f word not inserted every other word, and were there more details to do with nothing other than his attraction to her, this story could be a 3 or 4 star book.
It just feels empty, like the author wrote it in an afternoon, did a quick self edit, and slapped it upon kindle that same night. It’s superficial. Glad it was free otherwise I’d be wanting my money back.
June 24, 2023
The Intro to the AES series did not miss…
TEAMS/SEALS/THE TRIDENT… these all have meaning to the men readers come to know as Alpha, Zulu, Delta, Echo and the others… Billy “Bravo” Nielsen is the eldest child of the Late Admiral Nielsen who has suddenly passed away. The Admiral leaves behind his eldest son, Bravo, Adam “Alpha” Trefor the second son he raised and Billy’s bestie and the sister they both love Maila Marie “Emmy” age 17. To young to be left without both of her parents and honorable enough not to send these two men, these SEALS back into harm’s way. Adam secretly in love with Emmy since he first laid eyes on her. Emmy feels the same for the 11 years older Adam. And that is the set-up for the book, ALPHA which is the beginning of the Alpha Elite Security Series.
Ms Bartel has created sensitive and caring characters. They are both strong men and Emmy is strong and capable on her own. This intro to the series is outstanding… it leaves readers wanting to know more, not just about the TEAMS but about ALPHA and Emmy. Surprises abound….
TEAMS/SEALS/THE TRIDENT… these all have meaning to the men readers come to know as Alpha, Zulu, Delta, Echo and the others… Billy “Bravo” Nielsen is the eldest child of the Late Admiral Nielsen who has suddenly passed away. The Admiral leaves behind his eldest son, Bravo, Adam “Alpha” Trefor the second son he raised and Billy’s bestie and the sister they both love Maila Marie “Emmy” age 17. To young to be left without both of her parents and honorable enough not to send these two men, these SEALS back into harm’s way. Adam secretly in love with Emmy since he first laid eyes on her. Emmy feels the same for the 11 years older Adam. And that is the set-up for the book, ALPHA which is the beginning of the Alpha Elite Security Series.
Ms Bartel has created sensitive and caring characters. They are both strong men and Emmy is strong and capable on her own. This intro to the series is outstanding… it leaves readers wanting to know more, not just about the TEAMS but about ALPHA and Emmy. Surprises abound….
Read
July 24, 2022Great lines:
"Men are born. Warriors are made. Honor is earned."
“The only thing I’d been acutely aware of since before I was old enough to vote was that none of us got out of this alive. We all had an expiration date. The only difference between any of us was what you decided to do with the time you had.”
“The eleven years I’d had with the Vice Admiral was worth more than a hundred lifetimes compared to what I’d come from. The only thing my drug-addicted, biological mother taught me was that blood relations meant nothing. I’d learned early on that fending for myself meant that you either pushed through and kept living, or you went down as a nameless, faceless coward that no one would remember, let alone give a shit about after you drew your last breath.”
Excerpt From: Sybil Bartel. “Seal.” Apple Books. https://books.apple.com/au/book/seal/...
Mistakes
“My jaw ticked. “What did they gave you?” Chapter 3, page 22, Apple Books
"Men are born. Warriors are made. Honor is earned."
“The only thing I’d been acutely aware of since before I was old enough to vote was that none of us got out of this alive. We all had an expiration date. The only difference between any of us was what you decided to do with the time you had.”
“The eleven years I’d had with the Vice Admiral was worth more than a hundred lifetimes compared to what I’d come from. The only thing my drug-addicted, biological mother taught me was that blood relations meant nothing. I’d learned early on that fending for myself meant that you either pushed through and kept living, or you went down as a nameless, faceless coward that no one would remember, let alone give a shit about after you drew your last breath.”
Excerpt From: Sybil Bartel. “Seal.” Apple Books. https://books.apple.com/au/book/seal/...
Mistakes
“My jaw ticked. “What did they gave you?” Chapter 3, page 22, Apple Books
October 25, 2023
Didn’t realize this was a super incredibly short teaser of a novella. Ugh!
Ends on a cliffhanger, so that’s annoying.
Then there’s the fact that I hated that the 28yo Navy Seal was in love with the 17yo kid sister of his best friend. He did the “right thing” and never acted on it of course, but it skeeved me out. Also didn’t realize this was somewhat a forbidden age gap thing.
Barely anything happens in this super incredibly short book. So really it’s just setting up the series and quite possibly, I’d have been happier not reading it and just starting with book 1 which seems to be set 7 years later, so the 17yo is maybe 24 now, and Alpha/Adam will be 35 then. More acceptable age gap romance.
Ends on a cliffhanger, so that’s annoying.
Then there’s the fact that I hated that the 28yo Navy Seal was in love with the 17yo kid sister of his best friend. He did the “right thing” and never acted on it of course, but it skeeved me out. Also didn’t realize this was somewhat a forbidden age gap thing.
Barely anything happens in this super incredibly short book. So really it’s just setting up the series and quite possibly, I’d have been happier not reading it and just starting with book 1 which seems to be set 7 years later, so the 17yo is maybe 24 now, and Alpha/Adam will be 35 then. More acceptable age gap romance.
August 8, 2023
Not a book
What I was able to read was well written, and I really enjoyed it. I thought I had finally found a series to dove in to for the next few days. I'm so disappointed this was only a few chapters and then the book cuts off. I wouldn't even call it a book. It's a short story that leaves you hanging so you can download Alpha. It's too much like click bait for me, so I won't be reading Alpha. I also didn't like the fact that a man in his mid 20's was crushing for a 17 year old girl. Age gaps are not my thing, but I can get around them. this was pushing it for me though and a hard pass.
What I was able to read was well written, and I really enjoyed it. I thought I had finally found a series to dove in to for the next few days. I'm so disappointed this was only a few chapters and then the book cuts off. I wouldn't even call it a book. It's a short story that leaves you hanging so you can download Alpha. It's too much like click bait for me, so I won't be reading Alpha. I also didn't like the fact that a man in his mid 20's was crushing for a 17 year old girl. Age gaps are not my thing, but I can get around them. this was pushing it for me though and a hard pass.
November 9, 2023
A Tease…
Started to read the book during breakfast and then it was over around the same time I finished. Felt the book could’ve been longer; like this was more of a prologue than a book.
I really liked to see how Alpha treated Emmy, but I also would’ve liked to see how he fell for her despite the age gap and find out how it was when they were gone over that year. I enjoyed where the story was going, even learning the SEAL terminology I had to go look up. I wished it was longer and more detailed before the big time jump. Kind of afraid to get more into the books if they are this short and having to buy them.
Started to read the book during breakfast and then it was over around the same time I finished. Felt the book could’ve been longer; like this was more of a prologue than a book.
I really liked to see how Alpha treated Emmy, but I also would’ve liked to see how he fell for her despite the age gap and find out how it was when they were gone over that year. I enjoyed where the story was going, even learning the SEAL terminology I had to go look up. I wished it was longer and more detailed before the big time jump. Kind of afraid to get more into the books if they are this short and having to buy them.
February 24, 2022
Even though several things got on my nerves, I’ll still be moving on to the actual series and I was really intrigued by the MC’s.
Pet peeves:
1- Why if the H is in love with the h, why does he have to man whore himself?? The story literally starts with the H’s one night stand mouthing off.60.2 Then I saw the major age gap where the h is only 17 and this is a major prequel taking place 7 years before the series start, so I suppose I’ll let it go this time :)
2- Sweetheart, honey, baby- unoriginal/ generic nicknames
3- Way too many swears
Pet peeves:
1- Why if the H is in love with the h, why does he have to man whore himself?? The story literally starts with the H’s one night stand mouthing off.60.2 Then I saw the major age gap where the h is only 17 and this is a major prequel taking place 7 years before the series start, so I suppose I’ll let it go this time :)
2- Sweetheart, honey, baby- unoriginal/ generic nicknames
3- Way too many swears
Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews